The Fundamental Forces of the Universe
The cosmology of this setting is based on three foundational, omnipresent energies: Evo, Zois, and Aether.
1. Evo (The Universal Catalyst)
* Definition: Evo is the fundamental, untamed natural energy of the universe. It is a dynamic, pervasive force, often likened to the raw power of the cosmos.
* Property: It is a force of pure energy; it is incapable of directly creating life. Its role is to activate and fuel existing structures.
* Metaphor: Conceptually, Evo is the Oxygen of the universe—the necessary fuel for all reactions and processes.
2. Zois (The Material Matrix)
* Definition: Zois is the reverse form of Evo—a force that tends toward structure, physicality, and stability. It is the building block of matter.
* Property: Zois forms the physical basis of all things, including the body and its cells.
* Metaphor: Zois is the Carbon of the universe—the structural element from which life and matter are formed.
3. Aether (The Unified Power)
* Definition: Aether is the perfect mixture and reaction of Evo and Zois. It is the refined, usable power source for all living creatures and magic.
* Mechanism: When Evo (energy) is drawn into the body, it naturally interacts and merges with the Zois (structure) contained within the cells, forming Aether.
The Living Organism
Life in this universe is a continuous process of managing the balance between Zois, Evo, and Aether.
Life and Survival
* Composition: The physical body is fundamentally constructed from Zois. To survive, the body constantly requires the consumption and integration of Evo (much like a creature needs oxygen). The combination of these two, housed within a living organism, yields Aether.
The Aether Core
* Function: The Aether Core is a specialized organ designed to store surplus Aether that the body's cells cannot safely contain.
* Process: After Evo is converted into Aether within the cells, any Aether exceeding the cell's structural integrity threshold is passively shunted to and stored in the Aether Core.
* Note: Refilling an already expended Aether Core is significantly easier and faster than permanently raising its maximum storage capacity or "upper limit," which requires intense training or rare resources.
The Three Components of Power
A creature's total magical or physical output (Aura) is determined by a baseline ratio of three components: Mental, Aether, and Body.
| Component | Definition |
|---|---|
| Mental | Raw intellect, focus, willpower, and processing speed. |
| Aether | The total volume and purity of stored Aether energy. |
| Body | Physical strength, endurance, cellular structure (Zois content), and physical speed. |
The baseline composition for a general output of Aura (e.g., a simple physical enhancement or energetic display) follows a primary ratio of:
* Aura Ratio: 1 (Mental) : 2 (Aether) : 3 (Body)
Spell and Ability Ratios
Different types of abilities require different dominant energy ratios to be effective:
| Spell Type | Description | Ratio (Mental:Aether:Body) |
|---|---|---|
| Mental Spells | Abilities focused on telekinesis, illusions, mind control, or intense focus (e.g., enhanced strategy). | 3 : 2 : 1 (High Mental/Willpower dependency) |
| Elemental/Aether Spells | Direct use of energy, creation of fireballs, lightning, or raw Aetheric blasts. | 2 : 3 : 1 (Highest Aether volume dependency) |
| Sealing, Enchantment, etc. | Complex, stable abilities like weaving enchantments, setting traps, or creating lasting seals. | 2 : 2 : 2 (Requires balanced Mental control, Aether volume, and a stable Body to cast) |
Races and History
Thrones (Planetary Homes)
* Definition: "Thrones" are the planets designated as the primary, high-density residential worlds for the four major races.
Evo Beasts and Races
* Evo Beast: This is the umbrella term for all living creatures that utilize Evo, including the Races themselves. Less than 30% of all Evo Beasts are considered "Races."
* Race Title: To be designated a "Race," an Evo Beast must meet two criteria:
* Possess natural, inherent intelligence upon birth.
* Possess the biological ability to procreate (i.e., establish a self-sustaining population).
* Major Races: While thousands of unique Races exist throughout the cosmos, there are only four globally dominant Major Races that shape interstellar politics:
* Humans
* Dwarves
* Elves
* Veris (A unique, non-standard race)
Historical Context
* The history of the Major Races is marked by three Great Wars.
* The majority of common political terms, institutions, and standardized laws (including the designation of the Major Races) were formally established immediately following the Second Great War.